SHORT-TERM EFFECTS OF ALCOHOL

Depending on how much is taken and the physical condition of the individual, alcohol can cause:

• Slurred speech
• Drowsiness
• Vomiting 
• Diarrhea
• Upset stomach
• Headaches
• Breathing difficulties 
• Distorted vision and hearing 
• Impaired judgment 
• Decreased perception and coordination 
• Unconsciousness 
• Anemia (loss of red blood cells) 
• Coma
• Blackouts (memory lapses, where the drinker cannot remember events that occurred while under the influence)

Long-term effects of alcohol

Binge drinking and continued alcohol use in large amounts are associated with many health problems, including:

“My addiction built steadily and, before I realized it, I had become a morning as well as an afternoon drinker.

“I decided to stop drinking. I lay awake most of that night, and by noon the next day every bone in my body ached. In a blind panic, I nervously poured a glass full of gin, my hands shaking so violently that I spilled half the bottle. As I gulped it down, I could feel the agony gradually lessening. Then I finally knew the terrible truth: I was hooked. I couldn’t quit.”
—Faye